If you are a fellow Torontonian or live in a climate where you can enjoy 4 seasons you know that transitional outerwear is crucial. Most of the clothing that I have needs to be transitional-friendly especially with the fluctuating temperatures.
I know that every season there are new trends that come out but this post will be about timeless pieces that more or less can be used year after year. I try really hard not to get into the habit of purchasing new outwear each year especially because it can get really expensive and quite frankly it is unnecessary once you have all the staples.
Here are a few of my favourite pieces of outerwear that I have used over and over again and that have stood the test of time.
[skip to the end to see links to things I mentioned that are still available or similar items]
A trench coat
This is a classic piece. Currently I have two trench coats, both from Club Monaco and both of which I actually purchased last year. I have a forest green colour which I purchased from the store. It later went on sale and in my true frugal fashion, I was able to have it price matched (always keep your receipts ladies!), so I did get a good deal on it.
I also have a classic beige one that I purchased on facebook market place for about $80 (it must have been over $300 originally). It fit so well and I am so happy with it, there were no signs of wear and so I am so glad I was able to find this.
I always recommend going with a neutral colour for outerwear especially because you want to be able to wear it with a bunch of different things. Not sure if I am the only one that gets annoyed when my pants clash with my coat, but its something that has always bothered me.
My previous trench coat was purchased from Banana Republic which had lasted me years. I find there are a lot of affordable and well made options out there to choose from.
A wool coat
I actually purchased a new wool coat from Aritzia last year and it was a coat that I’ve wanted for a while now: the cocoon coat in camel. I love this coat for many reasons. It is a great winter coat, especially if you are wearing enough layers or a thick enough sweater underneath. This coat also works so well if you ever need to wear a suit. I find that belted wool coats will result in wrinkles especially when the belt is tied up at the waist but this coat is more loose that way you can avoid wrinkles and creases.
A plaid grey blazer
I purchased a J. crew grey blazer which was more of a wool blend material last year on Poshmark. It is also one of the few used things I’ve purchased and absolutely loved. It is a great thick material that can double up as a coat.
When it gets more chilly you can definitely put a solid coloured scarf on top of this to make it more warm and temperature appropriate. A plaid grey blazer is one of my favourites because you can dress it up or down and it is very versatile and neutral.
A wind breaker
If you are really into casual wear, as I am, a windbreaker is crucial. I love going on fall time walks and observing the fall foliage. A good windbreaker with a hood is essential for these types of activities. Windbreakers are generally water resistant and will keep you nice are dry.
If you’re planning on wearing a windbreaker as it gets chilly make sure you leave enough room for layers. I love this one from Uniqlo which is also packable into a little pocket. It is perfect for travelling (for whenever we can do that!)
A vest
I purchased a packable vest from Uniqlo a couple of years ago and I have gotten so much use from it. I use my vest under my coats sometimes to give me extra warmth during the cooler months and also wear it alone on days where I am doing activities but for which a full jacket may be too warm. This is a great piece to have that you can use for months and months either layered or on its own.
A denim jacket
Lastly, a denim jacket is probably something I always have in my wardrobe. The fit and colours of a denim jacket really makes a difference. I generally think a full length, more loose fit and a medium wash style is the best fand most versatile. I purchased mine years ago from Dynamite however my previous denim jacket was from H & M which lasted me years.
Other cute things
Other jackets that I love but do not own are the Ganna Jacket (I know that shakets are real “in” right now) and a leather jacket which I also do not own surprisingly. I have owned black leather jackets in the past but have disposed of them as they were never great quality and would wear quickly.
I highly doubt that I will be purchasing any new outerwear pieces this year (at least I don’t anticipate to). I bought quite a bit last year and frankly now that I am going out less and less, I feel that it really is just unnecessary to get anything new at this point.
What are your transitional staples and what some pieces of outerwear that you have used over and over?
Things mentioned and still available
